Martin Parkes, who has served as a graduate assistant coach for
the program since August of 2013, will assist the nationally ranked
tennis team that has visited the regional tournament three times
each in as many years.

Parkes, who volunteered with the Lions' programs for two years
as an assistant coach prior to becoming full-time, is not new to
the coaching sphere. He brings over 15 years of coaching experience
to the program, most recently serving as the Saddlebrook
International Tennis Academy Team head coach, where he worked with
numerous top world ranking juniors.

Parkes made an impact on the court as a player as he competed at
Division I Campbell University, before graduating in 2004. He was
tabbed the team’s captain and most valuable player en route
to a 43-15 record in 2003-04. He also climbed to as high as No.60
in the NCAA doubles rankings during the 2002-03 season.

In the late 1990’s, Parkes garnered early career success
as a nationally ranked junior then he spent time on the ATP Futures
Tour, as well as the British Tour, the German League, and Wimbledon
Pre-Qualifying events.

In addition, Parkes worked as a freelance performance coach with
the Lawn Tennis Association National training center in Yorkshire
(2003-06), at the Ilkley Tennis Club, the David Lloyd Leisure Club
and the Heaton Tennis Club (1999-2006). He also spent two seasons
(1999-2001) as the Leeds University women's tennis head coach
gaining valuable experience to help fellow coach Sarah Summerfield
on the women’s side.

Parkes carries a bachelors of science in both Psychology and
Exercise Science, in addition owns a USTA P-1 coaching
qualification and is a certified strength and conditioning
specialist CSCS.